Introduction
“What the Health” is a documentary that has gained significant attention for its claims regarding the connection between animal products and chronic diseases. The film argues that consuming animal products directly causes many of the prevalent illnesses in the world. While this claim may sound alarming, it’s vital to question the statements made in the documentary before jumping to conclusions. In this fact check, we’ll take a closer look at the claims in “What the Health” and explore the research behind them.
Unpacking the Claims in “What the Health”: A Fact Check
Claim 1: Consuming meat causes cancer
One of the main claims in the documentary is that consuming meat causes cancer. While it’s true that high consumption of some types of meat, such as processed meat, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, the documentary fails to distinguish between different types of meat consumption. For example, the WHO has classified processed meat, such as bacon and sausage, as Group 1 carcinogens, meaning they are known to cause cancer. However, they also note that consuming unprocessed red meat, such as beef and pork, is “probably” carcinogenic. This differentiation is missing from the claims made in “What the Health.”
Claim 2: The only way to get protein is from plant sources
Another claim made in the documentary is that the only way to get protein is from plant sources. While it’s true that plants are a source of protein, animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs are also excellent sources of protein. They contain all of the essential amino acids that our body needs and can be easier to digest for some people. Furthermore, plant-based proteins like legumes, whole grains, and nuts may not contain all of the essential amino acids, making it important to eat a variety of these foods to ensure proper protein intake.
Claim 3: Dairy causes osteoporosis
The documentary also claims that consuming dairy leads to osteoporosis. This claim is not backed up by scientific evidence. Studies have shown that those who consume dairy products have a lower risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis than those who avoid dairy. Additionally, factors like genetics, exercise, and vitamin D intake play a more significant role in bone health than dairy consumption.
Conclusion
Overall, while “What the Health” brings attention to the need for more research into the effects of animal products on health, many of the claims made in the documentary are not supported by strong scientific evidence. It’s essential to evaluate any claims made in documentaries carefully, especially when it comes to health-related topics. A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, whether that includes animal products or not, is the best way to maintain optimal health.
